Samsung announced it will launch its Galaxy Note 4 smartphone in China later this month, as the company tries to defend against the Apple iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus. This is a major effort by the South Korean electronics giant, because it's the first time it has decided to release a flagship device in China before other foreign markets.

The Galaxy Note 4 will be available Korea later this week, and will be introduced to the United States and other foreign markets throughout October. Samsung hopes to ship 15 million Note 4 units within the first 30 days of global release, as the 5.7-inch device competes with Apple's larger-screened iPhone.

Despite many Chinese consumers preferring cheaper devices - often made by domestic manufacturers - Samsung, Apple, and other major smartphone makers fight for increased market share. Xiaomi recently overtook Samsung as the No. 1 carrier in China, but the Galaxy Note 4 could help shake things up further.